The world’s number one event of the long products industry was held in Athens on April 5-7, 2009.

Around 300 steel market executives gathered for a unique “networking” opportunity and for comprehensive discussions on the state of the long product markets.

The participants came from 40 different countries across the world, representing a total of 185 companies.

Those in attendance had the opportunity to meet and network with all the major and international players in the steel business. One of the main attractions of the event was the insight provided as regards the economic outlook for the industry and the possible impact on production and consumption trends.

At the SteelOrbis Spring ’09 Conference & 60th IREPAS Meeting, long product and billet producers, traders and raw material suppliers convened as committees to share their view about the current situation in the markets.

Raw Materials Committee: From the point where we are now, it can be said that confidence in the markets is increasing. However, as scrap prices decrease, scrap supplies have become harder to reach.

Rebar and Wire Rod Committee: Given the situation shaped by the economic crisis, there is no doubt that demand has been badly affected. Although the impact has varied according to region, demand has decreased on average by about 30 percent to 50 percent.

Producers Committee: Due to the economic crisis, the current situation resembles the market conditions of five years ago. Nevertheless, after all the developments seen since the last SteelOrbis and IREPAS conference held in Hamburg, we are looking hopefully towards the future.

Traders Committee: The chairman of the Traders Committee said that traders are cautiously optimistic about the future. He stated that the markets in the UAE are not as static as believed; however, since there is no new pipeline project, pipe exporters to the UAE may face difficulties in the future

More news from the event on www.steelorbis.com